Press Release
July 3, 2009

ANGARA SEEKS TO EXTEND ASSISTANCE TO STUDENTS
AND THEIR PARENTS

Senator Edgardo J. Angara pushes for an institutionalized student fare discounts and extend its grant even on holidays, weekends, summer and Christmas vacation, this he propose amid a Global Financial Crisis which tightened every Filipino family's budget.

"During this time of economic difficulty, we need to extend every possible social protection and assistance we can provide in order to increase the spending capacity of Filipino families. The proposed institutionalization of student discount is envisioned to lessen the impact of the current economic difficulties and assist parents and students in shouldering the transportation expenses relative to the rising cost of education in our country," said Angara who chairs the Senate Committee on Finance.

He added, "The current economic slump necessitates extension of various measures given by the government to provide economic relief, including student fare discounts. This is the main reason for extending grants even on holidays and weekends."

At present, the grant of student fare discounts is only through a memorandum circular of the Land Transportation and Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

SB 892, as filed by Senator Angara, aims to put the thrust of the circular forward by institutionalizing the grant of a fare discount privilege to bonafide students on land, water and air transport utilities, not only during school days but also during Saturdays, Sundays, Christmas vacations and other holidays during a school year or school semester, whichever is applicable.

He added that majority of its intended beneficiaries belong to the indigent, depressed and under privileged sector. Hence, they need and deserve the assistance of the government.

Under this measure, the fare discount privilege is available to students even during Saturdays, Sundays, Christmas vacation and other holidays to enable and encourage them to undertake researches and group studies.

It is in recognition of the fact that during such days and periods students are returning to their respective communities to assist their parents and at the same time to get their allowances for the succeeding school week.

Moreover, there are certain students, like medical interns and those undergoing military trainings and specialized studies, who are required to report during such days and periods.

"I can not overemphasize the need for government to help and assist the people especially during this crucial time of global crisis," said Angara.

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